Pickleball can be played on almost any hard surface, such as an old tennis court, large driveway, a gymnasium, or even a parking lot if you know how to set up temporary pickleball court lines. Luckily it is easier than you expect, and there are plenty of products to help you out along the way.
Take a look at our favorite user-friendly products and a summary of how to set up temporary pickleball courts when you want to play a quick game.
How to Make Temporary Pickleball Courts
To make a temporary pickleball court, you’ll first need a hard surface that is big enough. It can be indoors or outdoors, but it does have to meet the size requirements of a pickleball court. We have previously gone over the exact dimensions of a pickleball court, but to give you a general idea, the overall size of a pickleball court is 20 feet by 44 feet.
Once you have found a surface, the next step is to set up temporary court lines. After all, if you are using a space that is used for something else, you don’t want the pickleball court lines to be permanent.
There are multiple solutions for temporary pickleball court lines, whether you have an indoor or outdoor space. However, no matter which you use, it is simple. You just measure out the spaces and use your favorite product to mark the lines.
Outdoor Court Lines
If you are looking to create a temporary outdoor pickleball court on some old tennis courts or basketball courts, you’ll want to ensure the product you use can withstand the outdoor elements.
Ifloortape Outdoor Pavement Marking Tape
Ifoortape Outdoor Pavement Marking Tape is a reflective tape that is perfect for creating temporary pickleball courts. It is easy to see on almost any surface since it comes in both white and yellow, so no matter the color of the flat surface you choose, there will be enough contrast. It is made in the USA with high-quality adhesive.
There are two things to keep in mind, though. With this marking tape, you should make sure the pavement is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit and that it is dry. If you apply it in these conditions, it will stay rain or shine, so your game can keep going.
Eco Walker Court Line Marker Set
Instead of sticking to any surface and potentially leaving residue or damaging the surface, the Eco Walker Court Line Marker Set lays flat and stays put without any adhesive. It is made of TPE, a type of rubber that makes it heavy enough not to blow away but still be thin enough not to hinder your game. Though we have classified it as an outdoor marker because it will hold up, it can, of course, be used indoors as well.
Sidewalk Chalk for an Outdoor Court
If you are on a budget, sidewalk chalk can do in a pinch to create your own court. However, keep in mind that it will wash away in heavy rain and may not be visible if there are existing lines.
Indoor Court Lines
Indoor courts, like volleyball courts or inline hockey rinks, are often easier to mark out your pickleball lines due to the smoother court surface.
Indoor Pickleball Court Tape
When it comes to indoor court tape, you’ll want to ensure that the adhesive sticks well enough not to move but will not damage the court when you pull it up. This indoor pickleball court tape is perfect because it doesn’t leave residue or damage flooring and is bright enough to be seen. It will also hold for days at a time, so you don’t have to keep applying more.
Cortable Portable Pickleball Court Lines
Though the Cortable Portable Pickleball Court Lines can be used outside, reviewers often mention that it works better inside. The biggest benefit to these is that you don’t have to measure out dimensions every time. It folds up and lays out easily, each time creating one pickleball court in an instant.
Franklin Sports Pickleball Court Lines
The most popular product for temporary pickleball court lines is the Franklin Sports Pickleball Court Lines Set. Not only are they highly visible, but the set also comes with an accurate tape measure so you can be sure you are always getting the correct dimensions. This set is easy to take with you, can be wiped off after use, and is bright yellow making them quite visible. Use them indoors or outdoors. The choice is yours!
Other Equipment You’ll Need
In addition to something to create pickleball court lines, you’ll also need a pickleball net. After all, a basketball court isn’t going to come with a net, and a tennis net isn’t the same. A portable net is a way to go so that you don’t have to put in a permanent net post. Of course, you’ll also need your pickleball paddles and pickleball balls.
Play Pickleball Anywhere
Playing pickleball anywhere is easy by setting up a temporary court. Whether you want two pickleball courts for the whole family to play or four pickleball courts for a pop-up tournament, as long as you have enough open space, temporary court lines can make it happen.